Five arrests after 40 youths fight at Telford Town Park

Police have confirmed that five people under 16 were arrested after the incident at the Jubilee Bowl in the park on Saturday afternoon.

One eyewitness, who had been visiting the park with his family, said that about 40 youths had been involved in the fight, with another large group said to be watching while some filmed the incident on mobile phones.

There have also been unconfirmed reports that footage of the incident was shared via Snapchat.

The witness said: “There were 40 of them in one circle throwing punches and another 40 watching it.”

He added that it was ‘quite a substantial group’, and that some families were visibly upset at the incident.

Five police cars had been present at the time, he said, adding: “It is not what you expect. The worst bit is there were little kids there on their scooters who were visibly crying.”

The five children arrested have all been given summons, say police.

Daniel Butler of West Mercia Police said: “On Saturday, January 27, at approximately 3.10pm West Mercia Police received a report of anti-social behaviour in Telford Town Park, Telford.

“Police attended and found a large group of youths involved in altercations.

“As a result five young people (under 16) were arrested for public order offences and issued summons.”

Inspector Paul Arnold said they would be patrolling to make sure that park-goers were able to enjoy visiting the area and across Telford.

He said: “West Mercia Police is committed to working with the local community to tackle any incidents of anti-social behaviour in our parks and public spaces.

“Officers from the local safer neighbourhood teams will be continuing to patrol areas throughout Telford to ensure that people of all ages are enjoying our open spaces.”